Remodeling On A Budget: Where Not To Cut Corners

When the average homeowner starts planning a home improvement project, it's inevitable that cost saving measures will be introduced to try and keep the budget down. While there are ways that people can save money when they remodel their homes, it is important to remember that certain types of materials and services should not be part of any cost-cutting measures. Remember that by spending money on quality materials and workmanship, the end results may be better, safer and will last much longer; that longevity will pay for itself overtime.

Hiring A Contractor

One of the first thoughts a homeowner has about their pending remodeling project is that they can save a lot of money by doing it themselves. Before you think about leaving a contractor out of your (budget), it's important to remember that professional workmanship is not only guaranteed by the contractor, but it will be done right the first time. Expert craftsmen can get projects done in a fraction of the time it would take an inexperienced amateur, and a contractor with a guarantee means that a professional will come back to fix the work if it is faulty. But there are ways you can save money if you use a contractor. For example, contractors often charge hundreds of dollars per day to clean up your home after they are done. You can save that money if you do the clean-up yourself. If you have access to discount prices on professional grade materials, then discuss paying for the materials yourself with your contractor and lower the cost of materials.

Designing Your Project

When you find a reputable contractor to help you remodel your home, you should also get that contractor involved in designing your project. If you're not a professional interior designer, architect or engineer, then your ability to understand all of the nuances that go into doing a safe and proper remodeling project is limited. Instead of hoping that you're getting the project done right, you should hire a professional designer and make sure it's being done right.

Permits

Too many homeowners lack the understanding of local zoning laws that would prompt them to get the proper building permits for their home improvement project. If you try to do your project yourself and the changes you make violate local zoning laws or building codes, then you will run into serious problems when you try to sell or refinance your home. You could even get a knock on the door from a city inspector who noticed your work and wants to talk to you about it. The costs you will incur in fines and contractor's fees to fix the issue will be well beyond anything you could have expected. Before you start your project, be sure to go over your plans with your local government office and get the necessary permits.

Ways to Cut Costs & Not Corners

Just because you should not cut corners on your project does not mean you cannot cut costs. For example, talk to your contractor about reusing some of the existing materials you have to preserve the charm of your home, and save money. Instead of installing brand new kitchen cabinets, you should consider resurfacing your existing cabinets yourself. Another way to save money is to do your project in stages to prevent having to (budget) for the entire cost at once. Get creative and try to determine ways you can save money on your project, and still get the kind of safe and reliable results you would get without cutting corners.

A home improvement project can give your home a new look, expand your living space and add value to your home. But the worst thing you can do with your project is try to cut corners and create problems that could cost a lot of money to fix in the future. You can look for ways to cut costs on your project, but you should avoid cutting corners just to get things done quickly and within your budget. Spending a few extra dollars to make sure everything is done right the first time will be the smartest investment you will make.